Bill > SB1032

This bill aims to protect Hawaii's democratic processes by preventing foreign entities from influencing state elections through campaign contributions and expenditures. The legislation defines "foreign-influenced business entities" as businesses with significant foreign ownership or foreign investor involvement, such as entities where a single foreign investor owns at least 1% of the company or where six or more foreign investors collectively own 5% or more. The bill prohibits foreign nationals, foreign corporations, and foreign-influenced business entities from making campaign contributions, independent expenditures, or electioneering communications. Business entities intending to participate in state elections must file a certification statement signed by their chief executive officer, affirming they are not a foreign-influenced entity and will conduct due diligence to maintain that status. Additionally, noncandidate committees making independent expenditures must obtain certification from their top contributors confirming that their funds do not come from foreign sources. If an advertisement cannot obtain such certification, it must include a disclaimer that some funds may have been provided by foreign corporations. The bill's purpose is to safeguard the integrity of Hawaii's elections from potential foreign interference, drawing on warnings from national intelligence agencies about foreign actors attempting to undermine democratic institutions.

Budget and Finance, Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1032&year=2026